Temporary Versus Permanent Disability Benefits In Workers’ Compensation
If you’ve been injured at work in Des Moines, understanding your workers’ compensation benefits can be overwhelming. Knowing which disability benefits apply to your situation can make the difference between receiving full or partial compensation.
Our experienced lawyers at Hedberg & Boulton, P.C., work with injured workers throughout the Des Moines area to help them obtain the disability benefits and compensation they deserve.
Understanding Temporary Disability Benefits
When you’re recovering from a work-related injury, temporary disability benefits provide crucial financial support during your healing process. These benefits typically amount to 80% of your preinjury wages before taxes and continue until you can return to work or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI).
Two types of temporary benefits exist:
- Temporary total disability (TTD): When you cannot work at all during recovery.
- Temporary partial disability (TPD): When you can work with restrictions but earn less than before.
These temporary benefits help you maintain financial stability while focusing on your recovery and eventual return to work.
Understanding Permanent Disability Benefits
If your workplace injury results in lasting impairment, even after reaching maximum medical improvement, you may qualify for permanent disability benefits. Our attorneys review each case to determine the appropriate level of long-term support needed. These benefits provide vital financial security and may include:
- Permanent total disability (PTD): For injuries preventing any gainful employment.
- Permanent partial disability (PPD): For permanent impairments that still allow some work capacity.
The amount and duration of permanent benefits depend on factors like the body part affected, impairment rating and your earning capacity. Many workers with permanent disabilities also qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), providing additional financial support.
Get Legal Guidance Today
Understanding whether you qualify for temporary or permanent disability benefits starts with a thorough evaluation of your medical condition and work status. Our Des Moines workers’ compensation lawyers at Hedberg & Boulton, P.C., will help assess your situation and work to get you the maximum benefits you deserve.
Contact our Des Moines law office today at 515-446-9861 or complete our online contact form for a consultation about your workers’ compensation claim.